ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) is advocating for the rapid establishment of the 10th cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) following the contentious parliamentary elections held on October 20. The KDP, which secured 39 seats, aims to initiate direct negotiations with various political factions, including its traditional partner, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The PUK followed with 24 seats, while the New Generation Movement (NGM) claimed 15 out of a total of 100 seats.
Salar Osman, a member of the KDP’s central committee, underscored the importance of PUK participation in government formation, stating, “There can be no government without their participation.” He welcomed all political parties to engage in shaping the next government.
In contrast, the Islamic Union of Kurdistan (KIU) has voiced serious concerns over the election results, asserting they do not accurately reflect voter preferences or policy positions. The KIU has officially announced a boycott of the upcoming KRG cabinet, positioning itself as a prominent opposition party in the Region.
Khalil Ibrahim, spokesperson for the KIU, reaffirmed his party’s commitment to opposing the new cabinet, emphasizing that their election slogan, “Enough is Enough,” signifies a pledge to challenge misgovernance in the Region.
The Kurdistan Justice Group (Komal) has further altered the political dynamics by declaring a boycott of the forthcoming parliament due to significant concerns about the electoral results. This decision complicates negotiations for cabinet participation with the winning parties.
Qumrya Sheikh Mohammed Barznji, a leader within Komal, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of forming a new government, stating that her party cannot compromise its principles by legitimizing a “fake” parliament that fails to represent the true will of the people. Barznji highlighted that their parliamentary activities are only one aspect of the Kurdistan Justice Group’s broader political strategy.
A coalition of discontented parties is intensifying efforts to unite against the election results, alleging potential vote manipulation. They are actively seeking to establish a unified front to reject the election outcomes and refuse participation in the new cabinet formation.
After several delays over the past two years, the Kurdistan Region’s parliamentary elections were conducted under the supervision of the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC). The electoral process has led to a division within the Region, creating two opposing fronts: One that endorses the elections as free and fair, and another that condemns them as predetermined and rigged.
Reporting by Rebin Sardar, Zoom News reporter in Erbil.